September is National Cholesterol Education Month, a time to raise awareness about cholesterol’s critical role in heart health and the hidden ways it affects employees and workplaces alike. While most people think of high cholesterol as a personal health issue, few realize it can directly impact workplace safety, productivity, and long-term business outcomes.
Cholesterol-related illnesses like heart disease and stroke are among the leading causes of death in the United States, costing businesses billions in lost productivity and healthcare expenses every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 86 million U.S. adults age 20 or older have total cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dL (a level that may warrant treatment), and many are unaware of it until a serious health event occurs.
In observance of National Cholesterol Education Month, now is the perfect time for employers to understand the risks and implement proactive solutions. At MedPhysicals Plus, we’re helping people across Alaska—individuals and workplaces alike—take simple, meaningful steps toward better cardiovascular wellness, starting with a cholesterol screening.
High Cholesterol: A Silent Threat in the Workplace
High cholesterol is asymptomatic, meaning it presents no visible signs. Internally, however, it can cause plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular conditions. This not only puts individual employees at risk but also creates broader implications for workplace safety.
Safety-Sensitive Roles
Employees in roles requiring physical labor, machinery operation, or driving are especially vulnerable. A cardiac event on the job could have serious or even fatal consequences for them and their coworkers.
Cognitive and Physical Performance
Poor cardiovascular health can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and mental fog, all of which impair judgment and reaction time, critical factors in high-stakes environments.
Rising Health Costs and Absenteeism
Chronic conditions stemming from unmanaged cholesterol often lead to more sick days, doctor visits, and long-term medication use, raising costs for both employees and employers.
Who’s at Risk? Hint: It’s Not Just Older Adults
High cholesterol can affect anyone, not just those over 50. Many younger adults, especially those working sedentary desk jobs or night shifts, may have elevated cholesterol due to poor diet, stress, lack of exercise, or inadequate sleep. That means a wide range of employees, regardless of age or role, may be at risk without even knowing it.
Keeping Your Workforce Heart-Healthy
Employers benefit directly when they invest in heart health initiatives. Healthier employees mean fewer sick days, lower long-term healthcare costs, and stronger overall productivity.
Offering accessible screenings (like blood pressure or cholesterol checks) not only helps catch risks early but also demonstrates a company’s commitment to employee well-being. Simple changes, such as healthier breakroom options, walking meetings, or wellness challenges, can build a culture of care that improves morale and supports long-term heart health.
Comprehensive Blood Testing Services in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Wasilla, and Soldotna
At MedPhysicals Plus, we make it easy for businesses and individuals to prioritize employee health with fast, convenient, and affordable services. Our Lipid Panel measures total cholesterol, HDL (“good”), LDL (“bad”), and triglycerides. It’s the gold standard for identifying cardiovascular risk early and is available with or without a doctor’s referral.
Don’t wait for a medical emergency to highlight the importance of cardiovascular screening. National Cholesterol Education Month is the perfect opportunity to launch or strengthen your employee wellness strategy.
MedPhysicals Plus proudly serves businesses and individuals across Alaska, with convenient locations in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Wasilla, and Soldotna. Contact MedPhysicals Plus today to schedule employee screenings or learn more about our workplace wellness services.